Tools: a pot, a pan, a phone, a friend (or 6)

The word is not what you think. Although if you are talking about the presidential elections result, that four-letter f word may slip out.

The “F” word in question is Friends.

Despite the one designated day per year to be thankful, we can be thankful for our friends any day of the year. Every year in the US, Thanksgiving happens the fourth Thursday in November. We get at least one day off to reflect on the year and the things we are grateful for having. Usually it means good food, good laughs, #ThanksgivingClapback and uncomfortable updates with family.

“So…what have you been up to?”

“How’s that ‘project’ coming along?”

“Have you seen the #YouNameIt Challenge?”

“Are you still dating that [insert wrong name]?”

For some of us, it is also one of the most stressful times of year. Hosting the meal, entertaining guests, conversations and sharing space with people we spend the other 364 days of the year avoiding, all make it feel like we need a vacation from our vacation. Your family is your family, no matter if love or strong disdain is in the air. But your friends?! Your friends can come over WHENEVER! Seriously, 2016 has been a rough year, but we still have so much to be thankful for. If you don’t want to delve into  family angst, divisive politics and the general holiday malaise, just use some common sense and craft a friendsgiving of people you actually like and want to hang out with.

2017 is approaching and you can get your “friendsgiving” game tight by starting now. Using a day to host a meal for you and your friends is a great way to let the family you choose know how much you appreciate them and enjoy spending time with them. If you find the traditional on-goings too much this year, consider a potluck friendsgiving with others choosing to spend their time with you. Call it what you want, just keep sharing the thanks!

Share your “friendsgiving” top tips, recipes, and photos in the comments below!